| abstract |
An absorbent article comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet, the topsheet having a first (3) and a second (5) side, the first side being one side facing the body and the second side being in fluid communication with the absorbent core, said topsheet characterized by a band (1) of laminate formed by selective mechanical deformation of at least the first (20) and second precursor bands ( 21), at least the first precursor band being a band of non-woven material, the second side comprising the first precursor band, the first side comprising the second precursor band and a plurality of discrete tufts (6), each of the tufts comprising discrete a plurality of tufted fibers (8, 18) which are integral extensions of at least the first precursor web and extend through the second precursor web, originating said tufts being at least partially on said second side and extending to a body-facing distal portion (31), the body-facing distal portion being relatively hydrophobic with respect to the second side. |